What To Do In Singapore This Year

Singapore has been one of the go-to places for a quick and easy getaway. The vibrant, sophisticated city-state boasts of state-of-the-art attractions and properties, enticing the jetsetting crowd with its cosmopolitan charm. You might have taken the requisite photo with the famed Merlion icon, wandered along Marina Bay Sands, visited Sentosa, or gone on a food trip at hawker centers—but there's more to this city than the usual haunts. If you are looking for something different this year and have a weekend to spare for a short trip, we’ve rounded up things you should definitely check out.

A place to stay? Check. A new art hub? It’s on the list! Must-visit stores for a shopping spree? We got you! Book that flight now and find yourself in a whole new level of awe with this Asian favorite spot. Read on!

1. Have a luxe stay at Hotel Fort Canning.

Be at ease with all the conveniences while indulging in lush greenery. Sure, Singapore is an urban location, but it’s never without that touch of nature. Hotel Fort Canning offers a breather that combines both, with its timeless colonial charm luring you into a memorable holiday retreat. With Valentine’s Day arriving in a month’s time, the hotel puts up their Love Blossoms special, where couples are treated to a complimentary bottle of Prosecco, a box of chocolate pralines, premium bubble bath with floral petals, and a pair of Hotel Fort Canning Love Squirrels. Imagine coming back to your room, after a round of shopping at Orchard Road or stuffing yourself with good food from nearby restaurants and streetfood stalls with this sweet surprise taking the romance level up the notch for you and your partner. Love is truly in the air!

2. Find a one-of-a-kind piece of art at Gelam Gallery Alive.

In conjunction with Singapore Art Week happening this January, Gelam Gallery Alive is back for its second edition from a successful run last year. The vibrant pop-up arts and craft market will stage wall murals, handicrafts stands, fun workshops like bag painting and doll crochet, meet-and-greet with artists like a haiku composer and caricature artists, and surprise performances like bubble shows, juggling and mime acts, and more! Head to Gelam Gallery at Muscat Street on January 17, 5 to 11pm, and 18, 4 to 10pm. 

3. Shop 'til you drop in these homegrown Singapore brands.

Of course, you just can’t say no to shopping when you’re in Singapore! From chic arm candies and designer jewelry pieces to artisan shoes and fashionable threads, there’s something for every kind of lady looking for a perfect outfit match. Our top picks: womenswear label In Good Company, luxury handbag brand Ling Wu, reimagined ethnic-inspired wear by Ong Shunmugam, baubles by Carrie K, fast-fashion favorite Charles & Keith, modern minimalist contemporary wear Beyond The Vines, street-luxe designer creations by Lisa Von Tang, backless pieces from Stolen, jewellery atelier Choo Yilin, and smart-casual menswear label Benjamin Barker. Also, don’t forget to drop by Design Orchard which houses over 60 local designers in their hub!

4. Pick a timeless timepiece for you or your partner.

After you’ve had your retail therapy, make a sweet gesture and swing by Panerai’s new boutique, located at Marina Bay Sands. Florentine luxury watchmaker’s second branch in the city is an ideal blend of tradition and the future, boasting of an intimate atmosphere and a personalized shopping experience. Browse through its core collections Radiomir, Luminor, Luminor Due, and Submersible—you’ll surely find a piece that fits your or your loved one's taste.